Kentucky “bans the box” for state job seekers

In February, Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin signed an executive order to “ban the box.” The practical effect of this order means that job applications for state government positions will not include a section asking the applicant whether he or she has ever been convicted of a crime. This measure will give individuals with criminal records an opportunity to apply for jobs within the executive branch without disclosing their conviction history – theoretically giving them a better chance of landing the job.

Governor Bevin encouraged the private sector to adopt similar measures: “I want to specifically challenge each and every private employer in this state to think about doing the exact same thing.” Widespread adoption would give a “second chance” to individuals with a criminal record, allowing them to seek meaningful employment in jobs that pay more than minimum wage.